Kendall Test is used to assess tightness or contracture of which muscle?

• A. Iliopsoas
• B. Hamstrings
• C. Rectus Femoris
• D. Adductors

Answer: (C)

The Kendall test targets the rectus femoris, a two‑joint muscle that crosses both the hip and knee. Because the hip is placed in flexion while the knee is tested for extension, a tight rectus femoris limits how far the knee can straighten when the hip is flexed. If knee extension is incomplete, that suggests a contracture or tightness of rectus femoris. This is distinct from testing other muscles: iliopsoas tightness is usually evaluated with a Thomas-type maneuver focusing on hip flexion, hamstrings are assessed by straight‑leg or knee‑to‑chest motions with the hip extended, and adductors are checked with maneuvers that bring the thigh toward the midline.